Mayoral Manse

By Mark Loehrke
Appears in the December 2024 issue.

This updated estate traces its history back to Geneva’s early days

Those looking for a luxury home within walking distance of Geneva’s downtown will most likely find that Elizabeth Place—as the limestone Mission Revival estate at 316 Elizabeth Place is known—certainly fits the bill, with the area’s many shops and restaurants just blocks away. And for those with an appreciation for the town’s history, it has plenty of that.

Built in 1899 and now on the market for $2.3 million, Elizabeth Place was the personal residence of onetime Geneva mayor Henry Bond Fargo. Over the years, various owners hosted large social gatherings in what was a third-floor dance hall. And while the number of formal dances has steadily diminished (though the spacious third floor still retains its status as a social space, with a full bar and stone fireplace), listing agent Roger Erikson of Coldwell Banker Realty says the home itself has undergone a number of renovations and upgrades—most notably in 2016 when the trim work, lighting, electrical, HVAC were all modernized, and a new high-end kitchen was built out. Thankfully the home’s the historic charm has been preserved with the addition of the modern amenities.

Outside, the landscaped 1.6-acre lot offers plenty of space for relaxing and entertaining, with a babbling brook, a separate carriage house with its own living quarters and full kitchen, and multiple patios—any one of which could probably serve as a nice alfresco dance floor, per mayoral prerogative.

Photos: Kurt Cichowski